24/7 Guided

Signature

Signature

We use premium hotels that are unique expressions of the region. Often they’ve had a previous life as a monastery or a castle, but in every case they offer an exceptionally comfortable stay.

Bistro

These are stylish 4-star properties that offer a casual and comfortable stay. Often without a 24-hour concierge or room service, they tend to be smaller family-run hotels that are perfect for the region.

Level

Recreational

X

Occasional

“I can’t say I really ‘work out,’ but I’m in good shape and am relatively active.”

Recreational

“I enjoy a good walk or ride, and feel comfortable while on the move.”

Enthusiast

“I get moving at least once a week, and don’t mind a little sweat.”

Avid

“I get moving a few times per week and enjoy some exertion.”

Expert

“I want to feel invigorated each day and going hard is how I like to do that.”

Ride Ireland's stunning west coast

If Ireland is the Emerald Isle, then counties Kerry and Cork are surely its crowning jewels. With landmark sites like the Killarney National Park and the famed Ring of Kerry, there is plenty to check off one’s bucket list, but off the beaten path there is much more to be explored. For outdoor and cultural enthusiasts alike, the region is a paradise: the otherworldly beauty of Kerry’s rugged landscapes are complemented by its fascinating ancient sites and charming coastal villages; while Cork’s lesser-visited peninsulas, Beara and Sheep’s Head, rival the natural attributes of their neighbours to the north without all the crowds. Ireland’s “second city”, Cork, is arguably the country’s most vibrant with a thriving foodie scene, arts scene and all of the snug pubs and traditional music one would expect. Authenticity abounds so grab a pint and hold on!

How do you want to travel?

Go PrivateGo Bespoke

Kerry & Cork Biking

Ready-to-Book private tours are designed to be enjoyed off-the-rack, but there is room for minor adjustments to fit the trip to your needs. If the gap is too great, then we’d be happy to tailor-make you a Bespoke trip from scratch. Simply tell us a few details about your group and select your preferred date. One of our Trip Designers will spring into action, confirming the details or exploring alternatives, over the next 48 hours.

Day by Day

From the airport, you'll be driven to the glorious Cromane Peninsula in County Kerry, home to the largest mussel bed in Ireland. You’ll grab lunch at a local seafood spot before the afternoon’s ride along the shores of Lough Caragh.

This morning you’ll explore the Dingle Peninsula, starting at Maharees and cycling to Conor Pass, one of the country’s most impressive mountain passages. After lunch, ambitious riders will have the option to ride to Slea Head or back to the hotel where you'll enjoy dinner at your leisure.

Today you'll bike to the legendary Ring of Kerry before veering inland, passing through the Ballaghbeama Gap and skirting the Macgillicuddy Reeks, Ireland’s highest mountains. Lunch (and Guinness, of course) will be in the vibe-y town of Kenmare.

You’ll catch a boat across Kenmare Bay to Dawros, on the Beara Peninsula, starting today’s ride from there biking along its gorgeous shores. You’ll grab a scrumptious pub lunch before returning to Kenmare. Tonight you’ll venture out in town where you can enjoy dinner and traditional live music.

Today you'll venture to Sheep’s Head, a beautiful and unspoiled peninsula with a stunning coastal route of windswept moors and wildflowers. You’ll stop for lunch in Durrus at a cookery school where chef Carmel Somer whips up mouthwatering dishes using seasonal and locally sourced ingredients. Tonight you'll have dinner at your leisure in Cork City.

Depending on your departure time, you’ll be driven to Cork Airport for your departure flight or will have the option for a half-day trip down to Kinsale, 30-minutes drive away. It’s a historical port and fishing town with colourful winding streets lined with galleries and shops.

Hotels

Ard na Sidhe, Kerry

Built in 1913 by Lady Gordon, a noted gardener, traveller and writer, this Victorian country manor house is idyllically situated on 32 acres on the shores of Lough Caragh. Each of its 18 rooms combines old world sensibilities with modern comfort. The property is within striking distance of the Dingle Peninsula and the Ring of Kerry. View hotel website »

Park Hotel, Kenmare

A landmark property dating back to 1897, the Park Hotel is nestled on nine beautifully groomed acres overlooking Kenmare Bay. Each of its 46 rooms is elegantly appointed with all of the original antiques, luxurious fabrics and object d’artes one would expect of a fine manor hotel. The SÁMAS spa is a real highlight. View hotel website »

Hayfield Manor, Cork

The ultimate urban retreat, Hayfield stands on 2 acres of mature gardens within a 10-minute stroll of downtown. Rooms and suites are tastefully decorated in a traditional style. The hotel has a fine-dining restaurant, bistro and a six-treatment room spa on site.View hotel website »

Read about hotels

I have never seen so many shades of green and trying to count them all eventually proved impossible. We did try to capture all the beauty Ireland has to offer and again this proved to be impossible but we brought home the memories of this amazing country.

— Linda Moudry

We never wanted to be the biggest travel company in the world, just the best. — George Butterfield

Recreational

This trip is rated Recreational, meaning it’s appropriate for travellers who enjoy going for a good ride and can handle an incline or two. The terrain we cover is varied. We’ll enjoy some gently rolling hills, flatter bog and coastal rides and will have the opportunity for steeper climbs and mountain passes which will be a bit more demanding. Activity levels will be tailored by your local guide to suit your individual preferences. There will be options for shorter or longer rides on most days with daily distances ranging from 20 to 100 km (15 to 60 miles). Rewarding views are guaranteed!

The Traveller

“I ride my bike once or twice a month and am comfortable on two wheels.”

The Terrain

Relatively flat but will include inclines and the occasional climb or two.

What’s included? Everything you need. Plus everything you’d want. Plus a few things you never knew you wanted ‘til you got them.

In a word: everything. In ninety words? Signature B&R guides; local experts; unique, unforgettable biking and walking routes; private tours; authentic local cuisine; lessons and demonstrations; local artisanal wines; wine tastings; all victuals and libations; all the endorphins you can handle; new insight; interesting, fun and like-minded travel companions; a feeling of total freedom. In short: an extraordinary, hassle-free journey of discovery.

2 nights Ard na Sidhe (Superior room)

2 nights Park Hotel Kenmare (Superior room)

1 night Hayfield Manor (Superior room)

All breakfasts and 5 lunches

Boat to the Beara Peninsula

Bikes & equipment

Private transport throughout the itinerary

Services of a professional local guide

All gratuities for meals, porters & hotels

The Bikes

You can’t enjoy a great biking trip without a really great bike. On this trip you’ll be riding a customized hybrid or a racing bike with drop bars. We also equip you with handlebar bag, helmet and water bottle.Check out our bikes

Racing Bike

Hybrid Bike

Sometimes your B&R trip simply isn’t long enough! Extend your stay for the best vacation possible. If you wish to spend a few days in region either before or after your official B&R trip, and need assistance making those plans, your B&R Travel Advisor can help. Call us to help you create an independent travel experience that fits your needs—if you desire, we can also arrange for a local guide.